Player of the Week, April 8-14: Aaron Bates

This week, in a very close race, Aaron Bates edged out Jacoby Ellsbury by three votes for SoxProspects.com Player of the Week honors. Lancaster's first baseman had a big week batting .435 (11/23), with 3 2B, 3 HR, 7 RBI, and 7/5 BB/K, while playing his first games outside the friendly confines of The Hanger (Clear Channel Stadium). The 23-year-old right-handed hitting product of North Carolina State University was the Red Sox third round selection in the 2006 draft. Pawtucket RHP Devern Hansack also received strong support in the voting.